A major security breach at RAF Brize Norton in Oxfordshire has triggered a nationwide review of defence site security after pro-Palestinian activists infiltrated the base and vandalised two military aircraft.
The group, Palestine Action, used electric scooters to reach the planes and sprayed red paint—symbolising Palestinian blood—into the engines using repurposed fire extinguishers. They also left a Palestinian flag and caused further damage with crowbars.
The two Airbus Voyager aircraft have been impounded for inspection, with potentially costly and time-consuming repairs if engine damage is confirmed. The rest of the Voyager fleet remains operational. RAF Brize Norton is the UK’s largest airbase and a key logistics hub for flights to RAF Akrotiri in Cyprus.
Political leaders, including Sir Keir Starmer, condemned the incident as “disgraceful” and “absolutely staggering.” Despite the activists’ claims of targeting UK involvement in the Gaza conflict, RAF sources said the damaged aircraft were unrelated to operations in the region. The breach has raised serious concerns over security at military installations across the UK.
The act of vandalism committed at RAF Brize Norton is disgraceful.
Our Armed Forces represent the very best of Britain and put their lives on the line for us every day.
It is our responsibility to support those who defend us.
— Keir Starmer (@Keir_Starmer) June 20, 2025
Members of “Palestine Action” broke into Brize Norton RAF Airfield and spray painted UK Royal Air Force plane engines.
That’s a pretty serious security breach especially with the recent drone attack on Russian aircraft fresh on everyone’s mind… #RoyalAirForce #RAF… pic.twitter.com/wSlnUV1P3v
— Mrgunsngear (@Mrgunsngear) June 20, 2025
Images have emerged revealing damage to an Airbus Voyager aircraft, vandalized by Palestine Action activists who breached RAF Brize Norton, the UK’s largest airbase. #iran #israel https://t.co/7exRVzJcbq pic.twitter.com/e7pYUpNjcg
— IYKYK (@jus_Bizzness) June 20, 2025